Kevin Garnett News: Tracking Latest Whispers Surrounding Celtics Star

Kevin Garnett is about to turn 37 years old. The Boston Celtics big man certainly isn't getting any younger.

That has sparked talk about the possibility of him retiring after the Celtics were bounced from the playoffs by the New York Knicks on Friday.

Garnett's decision may be tied to Paul Pierce's future with the Celtics. Pierce is owed $15.33 million next season, but only $5 million is guaranteed if the Celtics release him by June 30. They also have the option to trade the veteran.

It's not a question of whether Garnett can still compete in the NBA, obviously. He may not be the same player as he once was, but he's still a very productive player with a knowledge of the game befitting an NBA champion.

It has more to do with if Garnett wants to go through the grind for another season. He's already played 18 seasons in the NBA. He ranks 12th all-time in games played, and seventh in minutes played, according to Basketball-Reference.com. That tends to take a toll.

Right now, NBA fans everywhere are hoping the Celtics keep Pierce this offseason, increasing the chances of seeing Garnett play just a little longer.